The current system of post-mortem inspection using the typical macroscopic inspection techniques is ineffective in identifying the most common foodborne illness risks, e.g. Salmonella and Campylobacter. Therefore, there is a need to adopt a more appropriate, risk-based approach to meat inspection. One specific example of modifying traditional inspection techniques to represent a more cost-effective approach to meat inspection is the allowance in EC Regulation 854/2004 for only visual inspection of pigs that have been reared under controlled housing conditions since weaning. However, the definition of controlled housing excludes outdoor pig production from visual-only meat inspection. We have therefore conducted a qualitative risk assessment to assess the comparative risks to public and animal health from allowing visual-only inspection of both indoor and outdoor pigs.